“Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act. To lose Gianna is even more heartbreaking to us as parents. Michelle and I send love and prayers to Vanessa and the entire Bryant family on an unthinkable day.”

“I am absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the sudden and tragic loss of Kobe Bryant and his beloved daughter Gianna. Kobe Bryant was a king in Los Angeles and one of the greatest athletes the world has ever known. He thrilled Los Angelenos for 20 seasons at the Staples Center, was an 18-time NBA All Star, earned five NBA championships, was twice named the MVP of the NBA Finals, and earned the NBA’s MVP award. Fans around the world marveled at his skills on the court season after season. He was truly spectacular to watch. He was our champion, a living legend, and an inspiration to countless fans and aspiring athletes around the world. His loss is felt by millions of grieving fans who are in shock and disbelief by the tragic passing of such a prolific athlete, devoted husband, and loving father. My heart goes out to his wife, Vanessa, surviving children, relatives, teammates, and friends who are in mourning. I also extend my sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of all the victims who were onboard the helicopter.”

Congresswoman Maxine Waters

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant (24) drives to the basket in the second quarter of their NBA basketball game with Seattle SuperSonics, Sunday, April 15, 2007 in Los Angeles.(AP Photo/Gus Ruelas)

“Los Angeles is mourning the loss of one of our most beloved legends and icons. Though Kobe Bryant is no longer with us, our city will never forget what he meant to us, and we will keep his legacy alive forever.”

“Kobe Bryant was a giant who inspired, amazed, and thrilled people everywhere with his incomparable skill on the court — and awed us with his intellect and humility as a father, husband, creative genius, and ambassador for the game he loved.”

“Kobe was much more than a champion on the court. He was a father, an entrepreneur, producer, and an important voice to end homelessness. Our collaboration on #HomeWalk to end homelessness in @CountyOfLA will continue to fuel the #Fight4Homeless.”

A. County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant lays the ball up while being defended by Toronto Raptors (12) Rasho Nesterovic of Slovenia during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Nov. 17, 2006, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jeff Lewis)

“We are all devastated at the news of the tragic deaths of Laker legend Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and the other seven passengers aboard the helicopter. It’s going to take all of us some time to process the tremendous loss of life that occurred on Sunday. I send my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of all who were killed. We named August 24 ‘Kobe Bryant Day’ in honor of the greatness he achieved not just on the court but off. The pride of our city and a role model to children around the world, the ‘Mamba Mentality’ will live on forever. We’re praying for Kobe’s wife Vanessa, their three other children and all of the families involved.”

A. City Councilman Herb Wesson

Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant looks on before the start of their NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz Monday, March 28, 2016, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

“Kobe Bryant was a Los Angeles icon. He wasn’t just talented— he was masterful. My prayers are with his wife Vanessa, his family, his teammates, and his millions of fans. The greatest of all time… may he and his daughter Gianna Rest In Peace.”

A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant reacts after hitting the game-winning basket in the Lakers’ 101-99 win over the Denver Nuggets on Friday, Dec. 19, 2003, in Los Angeles. Bryant was in court for a pretrial hearing on his sexual assualt charge in Eagle, Colo., earlier Friday and missed the first quarter. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

“Saddened by the death of Kobe Bryant, one of the NBA’s greatest legends who inspired fans with his drive and passion,” she said. “Our thoughts go out to his family during this painful time, as well as the families of all those who were lost in this terrible tragedy.”

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot

FILE – In this Sunday, Feb. 10, 2002, file photo, Western Conference All-Star Kobe Bryant, of the Los Angeles Lakers, holds up his MVP trophy following the 2002 NBA All-Star basketball game in Philadelphia. Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Dan Loh, File)

“As the reports came in on the death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter and the other passengers on board his helicopter we all were shocked and saddened by the news of a life gone far too soon. Whether you were a Laker fan or not, the news seemed surreal. This tragic death of a young man dying in the prime of his life is a reminder to us all of just how precious life really is and how we must all embrace life, love and family and never forget what is really important. Kobe was a warrior on the basketball court and he seemed to ease his way into retirement life with the same passion and enthusiasm that we all admired when he was playing in the NBA. My thoughts and prayers go out to his parents, his wife, his children and all those who admired Kobe Bryant not only as a basketball star but as a Man, a Son, a Husband and Father.””

Shaquille O’Neal, left, and Kobe Bryant laugh as they attend the unveiling of a statue of O’Neal in front of Staples Center, Friday, March 24, 2017, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

“There’s no words to express the pain I’m going through now with this tragic and sad moment of losing my niece Gigi & my friend, my brother, my partner in winning championships, my dude and my homie. I love you and you will be missed. My condolences goes out to the Bryant family and the families of the other passengers on board. IM SICK RIGHT NOW!”

“As I try to write this post, my mind is racing. I’m in disbelief and have been crying all morning over this devastating news that Kobe and his young daughter, Gigi have passed away in a helicopter crash. Cookie and I are heartbroken.”

“Most people will remember Kobe as the magnificent athlete who inspired a whole generation of basketball players. But I will always remember him as a man who was much more than an athlete. Everyone at Lakernation is mourning with the rest of the world the death of one of the greatest players & human beings we all have ever known… so I just wanted to share a couple of my memories of Kobe.”

“To see him with his young daughter and the attention he paid to them … getting involved with women’s basketball and growing the sport. This was a man for all seasons. He was more than an iconic basketball player. He was someone who inspired millions of fans. For me, this is a God-awful day.”

Jerry West

“I’m Not Ready but here I go. Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had! I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA. Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have. WTF!! I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!! 😢😢😢😢💔. Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation💜💛 and it’s my responsibility to put this shit on my back and keep it going!! Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!! #Mamba4Life❤️🙏🏾 #Gigi4Life❤️🙏🏾”

Lebron James

**FILE** Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, right, and head coach Phil Jackson share a laugh as they walk to a photo shoot during Lakers media day in El Segundo, Calif., in this file photo from Oct. 2, 2006. Bryant says he can handle just about any kind of criticism. Calling him a dirty player crosses the line. Bryant reacted angrily to such a concept Wednesday, March 14, 2007, and expressed gratitude for the support given him by Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson. (AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian-File)

“This sounds crazy but Kobe spoke this,” said Tracy McGrady. “I want to die young.”, Kobe Bryant said. “I thought he was crazy,” said McGrady. “I want to be immortalized. I want to have my career be better than Michael Jordan’s and I want to die young,” said Bryant

Tracy McGrady

FILE – In this June 2, 2002 file photo, Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant hangs onto the rim after a slam dunk during the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals in Sacramento, Calif. Bryant scored 30 points in the Lakers’ 112-106 overtime victory over the Kings. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

“We have lost more than a basketball player today. We lost a legend, my friend and my brother! We have also lost a part of our future with GG gone too soon💔💔💔💔💔💔💔Prayers for all the family 🙏🏾🙏🏾”

Lisa Leslie

FILE – In this June 21, 2000 file photo Los Angeles Lakers’ guard Kobe Bryant gestures to the crowd from atop a doubledecker bus as the Lakers victory parade arrives at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Bryant, the 18-time NBA All-Star who won five championships and became one of the greatest basketball players of his generation during a 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, died in a helicopter crash Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020. He was 41. (AP Photo/Nick Ut, file)

“This is one of those days everyone will remember where they were when we lost a legend. Kobe an amazing basketball player but even better husband, father, friend, MENTOR. It doesn’t seem real. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and families.”

Candace Parker

Los Angeles Lakers jersey numbers belonging to retired NBA player Kobe Bryant hang inside Staples Center prior to the start of the 62nd annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020, in Los Angeles. Bryant, the 18-time NBA All-Star who won five championships during a 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, died in a helicopter crash Sunday. He was 41. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP)

“This is more than sad. When you have someone who is, I say is because he still lives in all of us. We all know he was a great basketball player but he was a better father husband and family man. He did so much in our community that a lot of people really don’t know about. ”

Jim Hill

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, right, fist-bumps his daughter Gianna after the last NBA basketball game of his career, against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, April 13, 2016, in Los Angeles.Bryant scored 60 points as the Lakers won 101-96. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

“All I can say is thank you”

Steph Curry

FILE: Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers dunks the ball during a National Basketball Association game against the Seattle Supersonics at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Matt A. Brown/Icon Sportswire) (Icon Sportswire via AP Images)

“Man this is a tough one for me! You were the first guy to put me under your wing and show me the ins and outs of the league. Had so many great convos about so many things and I will cherish those moments forever. Love you forever, Bean! #RIPKobe #RIPGiGi 😔”

Anthony Davis

Retired NBA player Kobe Bryant flashes the thumbs up sign following a news conference Saturday, June 25, 2016 in Taguig city, east of Manila, Philippines. Former Los Angeles Lakers star Bryant is here to promote his new line of shoes and other sports gear and to conduct basketball clinic to young Filipinos. The multi-colored rotating light is cast on the face of Bryant. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

“Man just being happy for me…man just saying how proud he was of me and how he wants me to continue being a role model for kids growing up…and…just for Gigi…and all the kids looking up to me just continue to inspire these kids and continue to play my heart out. That’s one of the last things he said to me.”

“ Kobe means greatness, I grew up with Kobe. Kobe influenced my life. Looking up to him, one of the reasons I started playing basketball. One of the reasons that I am here today. Yesterday was a horrible day for basketball, for everybody. A lot of people were really affected by it. I send my deepest condolences to their family, Vanessa and the kids that they leave behind. All I can do is pray for them.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo

FILE – In this Aug. 12, 2012, file photo, members of the United States basketball team pose with their gold medals at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. From left are Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. With two Olympic gold medals and a chance to be the first men’s player to win three, Carmelo Anthony has become the unlikely face of USA Basketball, a rise that couldn’t have been imagined 12 years ago. This 2016 star-studded American squad, missing some big names but still ferocious, needed someone to show the way. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

“It is hard to comprehend all of this. Just having those moments with Kobe, it was always about pressing forward and at this time it is so hard to so. It is hard to keep going right now… I know we are all just mourning.”

Kevin Durant

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant acknowledges the fans after the last NBA basketball game of his career, against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, April 13, 2016, in Los Angeles. Bryant scored 60 points as the Lakers won 101-96. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

“Knowing him personally, I know he’d want me to come out here & ball & still just be great… Everybody’s sad. No words can explain the impact he had on the sport… It’s just sad.”#Clippers”

Kawhi Leonard

Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant hugs coach Byron Scott as he comes out of the NBA basketball game during the second half against the Utah Jazz, Wednesday, April 13, 2016, in Los Angeles. Bryant scored 60 points in what he said is his final NBA game as the Lakers won 101-96. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

“God please be with the families involved. Heal every broken heart and be there in their time of need! Still can’t believe this 😢 I’m grateful to have someone like you to look up to growing up in Cali. You inspired me to play basketball and to dominate on both ends. You made it cool to play defense and bust someone’s ass on offense. Thank you for taking me under your wing and being in my corner. Rest easy Kobe! 🙏🏾🙏🏾😢🐍”

Paul George

** FOR USE WITH YEAR END AS DESIRED–FILE ** Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, top, goes up for a shot between the Boston Celtics’ Paul Pierce, left, and Al Jefferson during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Los Angeles, in this Feb. 23, 2007, file photo. (AP Photo/Branimir Kvartuc, file)

“Jeannine & I are absolutely shocked to hear of the loss of one of my favorite people & one of the best basketball minds in the history of the game! Our hearts & prayers to Vanessa & his girls. @kobebryant you were my biggest fan, but I was yours #RIPMAMBA”

Bill Russell

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant pounds his chest after the last NBA basketball game of his career against the Utah Jazz, Wednesday, April 13, 2016, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

“Sadly absorbing the tragic news about my teammates loss of his Son and granddaughter. Joe and Pam I humbly offer my condolences. Vanessa so sorry for your loss and pray you remain strong and focused on you and Kobe’s dreams for your family. Here Always for you…”

“You go through the 20 years of Kobe’s career and you think of how many people hated Kobe because of how great he was and you get to that last game when he scored 60-something points,” Vince Carter said. “… I think the world grew to love him even more after retirement because of the love he started to show different people. I’m talking kids in college, Trae (Young), his last tweet to LeBron (James, who just one day earlier surpassed him for third on the NBA’s all-time scoring list). You could see a man who was such a fierce competitor at peace as he was sits courtside now. It’s not the Mamba competing against whoever. It’s the dad teaching his daughter the ins and outs of the game. … That’s what I saw and that’s what I think a lot of people saw.”

Vince Carter

Los Angeles Lakers ‘ Kobe Bryant gets down low to defend during his team’s 108-103 victory over the Golden State Warriors in an NBA basketball game on Monday, Jan. 22, 2007, in Los Angeles.,(AP Photo/Danny Moloshok)

“It’s one memory of him that I can’t stop thinking about. It was our rookie season and my first trip to LA for a game against the Lakers. He came to my hotel, picked me up and took me to a restaurant. When we returned before he left, he asked me, “”What are you going to do tonight?”” My reply was, “”I’m going to the club, what are you going to do?”” He said, “”I’m going to the gym.”” That is who he always was, a true student of the game of basketball and also the game of life. He prepared relentlessly. There is something we can all learn from the “”Mamba”” mentality and from the way my brother lived his life. He will always have my respect as a competitor, as a friend, as a brother.

Allen Iverson

FILE – In this April 13, 2016 file photo, Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant smiles during the first half of Bryant’s last NBA basketball game, against the Utah Jazz in Los Angeles. Bryant is getting advice from Steven Spielberg, J.J. Abrams and Jerry Bruckheimer as he redirects his competitive drive from professional basketball to his publishing and production company. One month after retiring from the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers star has a new daily routine. “I get up early and I train and I work out. Then I go to the office,” Bryant said in an interview Wednesday, May 18, 2016.(AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

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